Tunica County sets $47 million budget

Written by By Meg Coker
Friday, 21 September 2012 19:15

At a special meeting on Sept. 17, the Tunica County Board of Supervisors approved a $47 million budget and a 30 percent increase in ad valorem taxes. The county’s next fiscal year begins Oct. 1.According to notes provided by county administrator Clifton Johnson, the budget represents a three percent decrease from the last fiscal year. Approximately $3.4 million generated from the tax increase will be used to pay “debt service.”Various entities will see reductions in appropriations from Tunica County. Tunica Museum received a $79,000 reduction from the previous year, and Paul Battle Arena’s budget was reduced $75,000. The airport commission’s funding was reduced $45,000. The solid waste budget was reduced by $41,000, and Tunica National’s was cut by $12,000. Two positions have been eliminated in the Recreation Department and one position will be eliminated in the county administrator’s department with the retirement of an employee in January.

School district ready to make the grade

Written by By Meg Coker
Friday, 21 September 2012 19:14

With the release of the Mississippi Department of Education’s accountability data, the Tunica County School District is staring at a D at the top of its test paper.Superintendent Steve Chandler said just like grades in the classroom, the new scale used to measure districts and schools ranges from A through F. Chandler said it provides a model everyone is familiar with and gives the community a clear picture of “where (the district) stands.” Grades are based on performance in state assessments and growth standards, with completion requirements also playing a part for the high school and the district itself.

Pick and Roll

Town wards adjusted

Written by Brooks Taylor
Friday, 21 September 2012 19:12

The town of Tunica’s Alternate 1 plan for redistricting was submitted to the U.S. Department of Justice for pre-clearance on August 21. Town officials expect a response from DOJ in about 60 days, well in advance of next summer’s municipal election.